How to Install Sandwich Panels

By Mekpan

Although installing sandwich panels is straightforward, the panels you purchase from an established company should be installed by technical personnel experienced in panel installation, as recommended by the manufacturer. This is important for ensuring that your system performs at its full potential.

Step-by-step sandwich panel installation

Installing sandwich panels is quite a practical task when done carefully. First, the floor or surface to be mounted must be flat, clean, and solid. If the surface is uneven, the panels will not fit properly, and issues such as water leakage may occur in the future.

The panels are usually placed on the roof or wall subframe. The alignment of the first panel is very important, as all other panels will be aligned with it. The panels are connected using an interlocking system and then securely fastened with self-drilling screws. A sealing washer is placed under these screws to prevent water or air ingress.

In the final stage, silicone or special insulation mastic is applied to the joints. This both prevents heat loss and increases durability. After all panels are installed, edge profiles are fitted, and the system is completed.

What should be considered when installing sandwich panels?

The surface must be perfectly flat. If there are any bumps or imperfections, the panels will not fit properly and may leak over time.
The surface must be clean. Any dust, grease, or construction debris left behind will cause gaps under the panels.
Installation should begin in a straight line. The more accurately the first panel is positioned, the more accurately the others will follow.
Take care when handling the panels. Bending, dragging, or holding them by the corners will deform them.
The panels must fit together perfectly. Any gaps will compromise both sound and thermal insulation.
Check the joints. If the interlocking system does not fit properly, there will be gaps between the panels.
Screw spacing should be even. Too few screws will cause looseness, while too many screws will damage the panel.
A sealing washer should be used. A washer should be placed wherever screws are used to prevent water ingress.
Silicone or mastic should be applied to the joints. This step is particularly important in roofing applications.
The direction of the wind should be taken into account. If the panels are installed facing away from the direction of the prevailing wind, the risk of uplift is reduced.
Thermal expansion should not be forgotten. If the panels are installed too tightly together, they may crack due to temperature differences.
Covering profiles should be installed properly. They tidy up the appearance and prevent water and dirt ingress.
A general check should be carried out after installation. The job is not complete until the tightness of the screws, the joints, and the sealing points have been checked.

Can I install sandwich panels myself at home?

No, we do not recommend that individuals install sandwich panels themselves at home. This is because the job involves more than just placing the panels. Accurate measurements, alignment, sealing, and insulation details are also very important. Even a small mistake can lead to water leakage, heat loss, or structural issues in the future. Therefore, it is best to have the work done by a reliable and authorised installation team. In this case, the panel system will also have a longer lifespan.

Is it difficult to install sandwich panels?

No, installing sandwich panels is not actually a very difficult job for an experienced person. However, this work requires attention and experience. If the surface is level, the measurements are correct, and the panels are of good quality, installation is quite straightforward. However, if the surface is uneven, alignment is not done properly, or the panels are transported incorrectly, the job becomes more difficult and the margin for error increases.

You can also consult Mekpan Panel experts for the most suitable panel solutions for your project. For detailed information, you can contact Mekpan.